Discover the beauty of the UK’s waterways as you glide through the best places to paddle board in River Esk.
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature and the excitement of exploring hidden gems.
Are you ready to embark on a memorable paddleboarding journey along the captivating River Esk?
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in River Esk
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Whitby Harbour

- ????️ Location Type: Harbor
- Access Point: Whitby Slipway (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Mild currents, protected from strong winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, occasional seals
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Whitby Abbey, Whitby Lighthouse, picturesque harbor
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, follow local regulations
Whitby Harbour, situated at the mouth of the River Esk, offers a scenic and sheltered environment for paddle boarders.
The historic Whitby Abbey and charming lighthouse make this a picturesque spot for a leisurely paddleboarding session.
#2 Ruswarp

- ????️ Location Type: River
- Access Point: Ruswarp Pleasure Boats (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle currents, sheltered from wind
- Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, herons, kingfishers
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Rolling hills, lush greenery
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Respect private properties, avoid disturbing wildlife
Ruswarp, a picturesque village on the River Esk, offers a serene and idyllic setting for paddleboarding.
Surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, this stretch of the river is perfect for a relaxing paddle or for wildlife spotting.
#3 Sandsend

- ????️ Location Type: Beach
- Access Point: Sandsend Car Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Mild surf, can be windy at times
- Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, occasional dolphins
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Cliffs, Sandsend Ness
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be mindful of other beachgoers, follow lifeguard recommendations
Sandsend, a charming coastal village located near the River Esk, provides a beautiful backdrop for paddleboarding along its sandy shores.
The beach offers stunning views of the cliffs, while the surf provides a moderate challenge for paddleboarders looking for a bit of excitement.
#4 Egton Bridge

- ????️ Location Type: River
- Access Point: Egton Bridge Village (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, gentle currents
- Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, herons, kingfishers
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Stepping stones, picturesque village
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Respect private properties, avoid disturbing wildlife
Egton Bridge, a quaint village on the River Esk, is a unique paddleboarding location with its iconic stepping stones and peaceful surroundings.
Paddle through the calm waters while taking in the picturesque views and abundant wildlife in this serene setting.
#5 Staithes Harbour

- ????️ Location Type: Harbor
- Access Point: Staithes Slipway (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Mild currents, sheltered from strong winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Seabirds, occasional seals
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Seaside village, rugged cliffs
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, follow local regulations
Staithes Harbour, located a short distance north of the River Esk, offers a charming and sheltered paddleboarding experience along the rugged cliffs of this former fishing port.
The seaside village’s narrow streets and picturesque cottages provide an enticing backdrop for an enjoyable paddleboarding session.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in River Esk?
You can paddle board in River Esk at sites like Whitby, Egton Bridge, Sleights, Ruswarp and Danby.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in River Esk?
No, paddle boards do not need to be registered to use on the River Esk.
When is the best time to paddle board in River Esk?
The best time to paddle board in River Esk is during the summer months due to favourable weather conditions.
